2004 release. In the 20 years that these two discs span, 1977-1997, Papa Wemba rose from a cult following in Zaire (Congo) to global stardom. Mwana Molokai is a collection of Wemba's most outstanding recordings, featuring tracks that were never previously available on CD or outside Africa, including several rare singles. In addition to duets with Pépé Kallé, Wendo Kolosoy, and Koffi Olomidé, the album showcases Wemba's celebrated band Viva La Musica. With Papa Wemba's death in 2016 at the age of 66 after collapsing on stage during a concert in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, this compilation is the best retrospective of the trendsetting soukous songwriter, singer, and bandleader.